Did you know that the benefits of straight teeth extend far beyond aesthetics? Straight teeth can drastically improve your overall health, from preventing periodontal diseases to improving chronic neck pain and migraines.
On the fence as to whether braces or Invisalign are right for you? Explore some of the hidden benefits of straight teeth.
Straight Teeth Prevent Disease & Decay
Crowded teeth are more difficult to brush and floss. It is much harder to reach any food or bacteria that may have worked its way between your teeth. When left untreated, bacteria can cause inflammation in your gums or even cavities. If you notice pink, swollen, or bloody gums, these are early signs of gum disease. Over time, this gum disease progresses into chronic inflammation, tissue damage, and, eventually, tooth loss. You may end up requiring serious (and expensive) dental work.
Braces may sound like an inconvenience, but they help protect the integrity of your smile for years to come.
Straight Teeth Are More Durable
Have you ever considered how much pressure chewing puts on your teeth? Human molars exert a bite force of between 1,100 and 1,300 Newtons. This force is up there with some of the world’s largest primates, like gorillas! That’s a lot of stress on your teeth.
Straight teeth don’t experience as much wear and tear because bite force is evenly distributed. However, teeth with malocclusion undergo excessive stress, resulting in premature wearing, like chipping, flattening, and fracture lines. Gradually, your teeth weaken and break. You may end up requiring crowns or dental implants, which can cost thousands of dollars.
Straight Teeth Prevent Pain
Do you suffer from regular headaches, neck pain, or jaw pain? The cause could be your smile. One of the most surprising benefits of straight teeth is how other areas of your body and overall health can improve.
Crooked teeth contribute to jaw misalignment. This excessive stress and pressure contribute to chronic pain in the neck, face, head, and ears. Do you have popping or crackling in your jaw when you speak or eat? These noises are a sign of TMJ, another painful disorder caused by misaligned teeth.
But how do braces help? Braces balance your bite forces, take excess pressure off your teeth, and alleviate the stress the muscles and bones connected to your mouth may be experiencing.
Straight Teeth Improve Speaking
Finally, straighter teeth can help improve certain speech impediments. Teeth that are crowded or spaced too far apart can make speaking difficult. Teeth play a vital role in directing airflow and tongue movements. Gaps can cause lisps or whistling. Meanwhile, crowded teeth that restrict tongue movements can cause slurring.
Braces and retainers also impact your speech patterns, but only temporarily. Once your braces come off, you’ll notice improved speech.
Discover the Benefits of a Straight Smile at Exeter Orthodontics
Straight teeth may offer cosmetic benefits, but they do so much more for your overall health and confidence. Whether you struggle with constant neck pain, have trouble speaking clearly, or notice early signs of periodontal disease, braces can offer a solution.
To learn more about the benefits of braces and a straighter smile, request an appointment with our orthodontists here at Exeter Ortho! We have offices in Allentown, Reading, Exton, Springfield, Harrisburg, and Lancaster, so we’re never far from home!
If you’re ready to experience the benefits of a straight smile, request an appointment today!